Dive Requirements

How do I become a research diver with the MBL?

Scientific Divers at MBL are students, staff, and faculty members of MBL that are involved in subtidal research, thesis projects, or class projects that require diving. There are approximately 64 divers currently certified and together they conduct about 2200 dives a year. Completion of the following steps is required to dive under the auspices of MBL.

Medical Exam: A thorough medical examination and the required laboratory tests must be submitted on the appropriate form. The student Health Center on consortium campuses can usually perform the required tests at reduced costs.

Waiver and Release Form: Sign it, have it witnessed and submit it.

CPR Certification: You must provide a provide a copy of your current CPR certification card.

Dive Log: Provide proof of diving activity, and a log of the 12 most recent dives on an MBL dive log form.

Written Examination: A thorough written exam must be completed.

Pool Evaluation: May be required depending on experience.

Openwater Evaluation: The initial check out dive will include surf or boat entry, a surface swim of 400 yd., descent, neutral buoyancy, mask clearing, mask removal and replacement, regulator retrieval and clearing, air sharing, simulated emergency swimming ascent, a normal ascent, and a rescue or two. Additional dives with members of the diving control board will also be required before certification.

Read MBL Diving Regulations Manual: Complete the form signifying that you have read the manual, and listing emergency contact information.

Equipment: Submit the form listing the equipment you own, the year purchased and the service history. A check of your diving gear will be made at the time of the open water dives.

If you have current scientific diving certification at a recognized AAUS scientific diving program, reciprocity may be granted. Contact Bill Grossman, Diving Safety Officer, for details at bgross@mbl.edu.